Lymph Node Biopsy

Definition

Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. They are part of the body’s immune system. These nodes help fight infection by producing special white blood cells. They also work by trapping bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. Normally, lymph nodes cannot be felt unless they are swollen. Infection, usually by a virus, is the most common cause of lymph node swelling. Other causes include bacterial infection and cancer.

With this type of biopsy, the doctor removes and examines all or part of a lymph node.

Reasons for Procedure

This biopsy is done to find out why a node is swollen. It can also be done to see if there are cancer cells in the lymph node.

Common areas for biopsy include:

Groin

Armpit

Neck

Under the jaw and chin

Behind the ears

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a lymph node biopsy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

Bleeding

Infection

Swelling

Nerve damage, including numbness at the biopsy site

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Leading up to your procedure, you will need to:

Talk to your doctor about your medical history, including:

Any allergies that you have

Any medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and herbs and supplements. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to 1 week before the procedure.

Arrange for a ride home from the care center.

Avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight if you will have general anesthesia.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia—Just the area that is being operated on is numbed.

General anesthesia
is used for open biopsies—General anesthesia blocks pain and keeps you asleep through the procedure.

An open biopsy means removing the lymph nodes through an incision. A cut will be made in the skin. All or part of a lymph node will be removed. After removal, the incision will be closed with stitches and bandaged.

Immediately After Procedure

The sample will be sent to the lab for examination.

How Long Will It Take?

About 30-60 minutes—longer if an ultrasound or CT scan is used

How Much Will It Hurt?

You will have some pain and tenderness after the biopsy is taken. Your doctor may give you pain medication.

Post-procedure Care

Be sure to follow your doctor's
instructions.
Results will be ready in about a week. Your doctor will tell you if further treatment is needed.

Call Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if your recovery is not progressing as expected or you develop complications, such as:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the incision site

New or worsening symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.